Judi Dench Reveals Recollection Challenges But Holds Onto Shakespeare Verses.
The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of growing older on her eyesight and recall, revealing she often struggles to remember upcoming appointments – but can effortlessly recite extensive passages of Shakespearean text.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she told a magazine.
Her assistants confirmed that such reminders are at times necessary. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's a crusher," Dench noted, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "but I can still hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the festive period.
On Friends and Exoneration
Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she needs full-time assistance in public to avoid falling over due to her vision problems. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a progressive issue that is the primary reason of vision loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement from acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just deal with it."
"It's challenging if I have any length of a part. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have many companions who will help me learn the script."
Her last screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
She continues to appear often at events, nevertheless, including at charity events like one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she could not see the final artwork, but would feel it "if permitted."
